ERNST & YOUNG has a new UK and Ireland managing partner in the form of 42-year-old markets leader Steve Varley.

Varley joined E&Y’s UK and Ireland leadership team in 2006, and assumed the role of markets leader two years ago. His new role will see the former Accenture man in charge of more than 11,000 people across the two jurisdictions.

Mark Otty, Europe, Middle East, India and Africa managing partner at the firm, said: “Steve is an inspirational leader who has a track record of success in professional services.”